John Cleese says ‘two Pythons down, four to go’ after Terry Jones dies

John Cleese has spoken about the death of his Monty Python co-star Terry Jones, joking that there is still "four to go" from the comedy troupe.

Terry died at the age of 77 after a heartbreaking battle with dementia, his family confirmed in a heartbreaking statement.

He was the second member of Monty Python to pass away following Graham Chapman's death from cancer at the age of 48 in 1989.

Speaking after news of Terry's death broke, John, 80, said: "It feels strange that a man of so many talents and such endless enthusiasm, should have faded so gently away…

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  Monty Python's Michael Palin 'feels fortunate' to have spent so much time with Terry Jones

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"Of his many achievements, for me the greatest gift he gave us all was his direction of 'Life of Brian'. Perfection.

"Two down, four to go."

A statement from Terry's family read: "We are deeply saddened to have to announce the passing of beloved husband and father, Terry Jones.

"Terry passed away on the evening of 21 January 2020 at the age of 77 with his wife Anna Soderstrom by his side after a long, extremely brave but always good humoured battle with a rare form of dementia, FTD.

"Over the past few days his wife, children, extended family and many close friends have been constantly with Terry as he gently slipped away at his home in north London.

"We have all lost a kind, funny, warm, creative and truly loving man whose uncompromising individuality, relentless intellect and extraordinary humour has given pleasure to countless millions across six decades.

"His work with Monty Python, his books, films, television programmes, poems and other work will live on forever, a fitting legacy to a true polymath."

Michael Palin also paid tribute to Terry.

Of all the surviving Pythons – including Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam and Cleese – Michael has remained the closest to Terry during his decline.

He said: "You will be very missed old friend. I feel very fortunate to have shared so much of my life with Terry."

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